Warriors Announce Kristaps Porzingis Injury Update Before Suns Play-in Game

However, his status is now in question heading into the next elimination game against the Phoenix Suns on Friday. The Warriors released their latest injury report on Thursday, with Porzingis listed as questionable due to right ankle soreness.

According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, he was seen limping slightly after Wednesday’s game.

Golden State acquired Porzingis midseason via a trade that sent Jonathan Kuminga to the Atlanta Hawks. Since joining the team, he has remained an important two-way presence when available, averaging 16.1 points and 5.2 rebounds in 15 games for Golden State. He has also contributed as both a floor spacer and interior defender. 

An NBA champion with the Boston Celtics and 2018 All-Star, the 7-ft-1 center is one of the league’s most unique big men, and has consistently produced when healthy, including stretches as a primary scoring option earlier in his career.

Golden State faces another win-or-go-home scenario on the road against the Suns, with the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference on the line. The winner will advance to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round, while the loser sees its season come to an end.

Porzingis’ availability could play a major role in how competitive the Warriors are against the Suns. His presence as a starting center could help  balance the offense around Curry and he can also provide a defensive anchor against a Phoenix team with multiple scoring threats like Devin Booker and Jalen Green. But if he is limited or unable to play, Golden State may have to rely more heavily on a smaller lineup.